​MEET THE TEAM: GIANNI CIAPPARA

​Performance Coach | Endurance Lead

Gianni Ciappara joins Atlas High Performance as the Lead Endurance Coach, bringing a specialised focus on long-distance running, indoor rowing, and metabolic conditioning. Recently graduated with an MSc in Sports Performance at the University of Limerick, Gianni bridges the gap between academic sports science and practical coaching application.

The Pathway to Atlas

Gianni’s tenure with Atlas High Performance began with a 50-hour coaching placement. During this period, he immersed himself in the facility's daily operations, shadowing sessions and learning the specific systems used to monitor athlete progression. His ability to adapt to the high-performance culture and his technical proficiency led to his transition from a placement student into a full-time professional coaching role within the team.

Background & Experience

Originally from Malta, Gianni is a 26-year-old endurance athlete with a competitive background in running, rowing, and HYROX. Before moving to Limerick, he spent four years coaching student and adult athletes, most notably serving as the Training Officer for the University of Malta Rowing Club (2021–2024).

In that role, he established the club’s first long-term membership training scheme and prepared athletes for major competitions, including the British Rowing Indoor Championships and the European Coastal Rowing Championships. He also gained international experience working as a Sport Volunteer at the Université de Bretagne Occidentale in France, where he co-instructed rowing and kayaking sessions for university students.

Coaching Philosophy

Gianni’s approach is grounded in evidence-based training and data monitoring. He utilises technology including Concept2 ErgData, Garmin Connect, and Polar Flow - to track performance metrics and ensure that training loads are managed effectively.

He is currently preparing for the NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) exam, further solidifying his commitment to professional development. At Atlas High Performance, Gianni oversees the Great Limerick Run Preparation Programme and leads programming for rowing-specific clients, applying the same structured, long-term athletic development principles he used to develop collegiate athletes in Malta.

Check out our Great Limerick Run programme for 2026 here!